Nancy,
I had about a 4 hour drive after the surgery. Of course "I" didn't drive but rode as a passenger.
I was released on the fourth day. So, three nights in the hospital after the surgery. Kidney was removed via laproscopy. I didn't remain in the local area afterwards. They scheduled a follow-up visit for me at a local hospital (Univ of Mich) which honestly, was worthless. I waited for a long time in the waiting room and when the doctor finally came in he asked why I was there. Not much value in the visit, ok, no value. The transplant center arranged for tests to check levels, etc, very regular though, which was good for tracking recovery. They (Clarion) also were excellent at answering any questions via phone or email. So, no compllaints except for the UM treatment. I guess since I wasn't one of 'their' patients, there was not much interest.
Back to the four+ hour drive. When I was released, the hospital gave me two shots to help with the trip. One for nausea (I had contracted norovirus while in the hospital) and a a morphine shot for discomfort. Needless to say, the trip went fine. Really no problems.
You'll need someone to drive though. Between anesthesia, pain, new incisions, etc, it would be a mistake to try to drive yourself anywhere for a couple of weeks.
Good luck!